On Friday 27 October, we celebrated World Teachers Day, which was the best time to reflect upon the immense contributions of our educators, and to express our gratitude. We can all remember the educators in our lives, who have had an impact, who have challenged our thinking and inspired us to be our best. I can still remember my year 8 English teacher – Michael McNamara who inspired me to become an English Teacher of passion and a love of reading. We are privileged at Damascus to have so many inspirational educators who believe in the talents of our young people and who are willing to support our young learners to be the best version of themselves each and every day. Working with young people is a wonderful vocation that each of us at the College our thankful for.

The theme for World Teachers’ Day 2023, "Hats Off for Teachers," pays respect to the incredible educators who play a fundamental role in shaping the future of all students. This theme calls for an acknowledgment of their unwavering commitment and outstanding contributions to our personal and community growth. Our very own Damascus educators embody the spirit of this year's theme. Wear many hats – as mentors, role models, motivators, and guides, ensuring that our students receive not just an education but an all-encompassing learning experience. On behalf of all within our college community I congratulate and thank them for all the care, support and commitment they bring to their roles.

As we approach All Soul’s Day on Friday and in our church tradition, the month of November is an important time for remembering and celebrating those we have loved and lost. Can I encourage you to visit the Commemorative Trail below the Mercy administration wing. The commemorative trail is a reflective walk to assist past, current and future members of the school to remember and pray for those who have gone before us and created the opportunities that we enjoy today.   

We remember all those who need our prayers at this time. 

With every blessing 

World Teachers’ Day is held internationally on 5 October. As it usually falls during the school holidays in many parts of Australia, we in Victoria celebrate World Teachers’ Day on 27 October 2023, which was last Friday.

It is a chance to recognise and celebrate the teachers who are making, or have made, an impact in our lives. Whether you're a current student, have children in school, or have been out of school for many years, World Teachers’ Day is a chance to say “thank you”.

We are very fortunate at Damascus to have a hard working and committed staff team who approach their work in a professional way every day. On Friday, we celebrated all those involved in the educational endeavour in our school and thank God for their contribution.

Last Tuesday, our Year 12 written exams commenced in the Damascus Events Centre, and will continue through until Wednesday 15 November 2023. Year 8 to 11 students will also commence their examination period in the coming weeks. We keep those students undertaking exams in our prayers.

A reminder to families that Tuesday 7 November 2023 is a public holiday, with no students or staff onsite. All students are expected to be in attendance on Monday 6 November 2023 for normal classes.

It is timely for students to revisit their study regimes ahead of the examination period.

Last week the Year 10 students who were not involved in the work experience program, spent two days reflecting on current and historical events that remind us that social justice is something we can all contribute to.

The Youth Mission Team spent the first day with the students. The team engaged the Year 10s in games and role plays. This helped students to develop a realisation around the need to respond to injustice in the world by appreciating the uniqueness and dignity of every human. The team emphasised the need to appreciate and respect ourselves and those around us so that we can make a difference in the lives of others.

In some beautiful and creative performance through mimes, the team were able to show how Jesus was someone who championed the cause of the poor, marginalised and rejected. In seeing Jesus as a role model, students explored the commitment to service to others in terms of our Christian call.

Day 2 was a trip into Melbourne. This was an opportunity to experience the theme of social justice in a variety of ways. One group were able to walk the William Barak Bridge and learn about the story of Barak, who was an inspirational Aboriginal artist and activist. Another group visited the Immigration Museum focusing on the waves of migration and the struggles involved in settling into a new way of life, in a new country. Students also visited Hosier Lane and other Melbourne landmarks.

Finally, all students participated in a workshop at The Big Issue. The Big Issue is a magazine concept that supports homeless, marginalised and disadvantaged people by creating job opportunities aimed to build confidence, connection and ways to help people empower themselves. The students were inspired by hearing the stories of some of the Big Issue vendors.

The Big Issue offers several community programs including:

• Street Magazine Enterprise
• Women’s Workforce
• The Big Issue Classroom
• Community Street Soccer Program

We hope you and your family are in good health and approaching the end of the school year with energy. At this staqe of the year, we would like to provide you with important information regarding the upcoming assessments for Year 7-10students.

Assessments play a crucial role in evaluating students' progress and helping them develop the necessary skills and knowledge for their future academic endeavours. We would like to inform you that the exams for Year 7-10 will be taking place from November 3^rd to November 21st during regular class time and scheduled sessions. An exam timetable is attached for your convenience.

So that teaching staff may prepare for Early Start, November 22^nd is a student-free day. Students will receive their new timetable during this student free day.

The PAT Testing (SPT) for Years 7 to 10 students will be conducted on the 23^rd and 24^th November. . This assessment assists in correlating the abilities of students with their achievements in the areas of literacy and numeracy. Correspondence from Rod Mathews to families regarding PAT testing will be communicated directly to families, providing all the necessary information. We would be very grateful if you would support your child in ensuring their device is fully charged on the day of their testing.

We would like to emphasise the importance of effective home study and revision during this time. To support your students’ preparation for these assessments, we encourage you to create a conducive study environment at home. Establishing a routine, ensuring a quiet and distraction-free space, and encouraging regular breaks can greatly enhance your child's ability to concentrate and retain information. Moreover, engaging in discussions about their studies, asking questions, and providing guidance can significantly benefit their understanding and confidence.

Revision week has begun at school this week but apart from revision in class, students should review their class notes, textbooks, and any supplementary materials provided by their teachers. Setting aside dedicated time for revision each day will greatly aid in reinforcing key concepts and ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the subjects.

Lastly, we would like to inform you that the semester reports will be released on Friday, December 5th. These reports will provide a comprehensive assessment of your students’ progress throughout the term, including their performance in the upcoming exams and final assessment tasks.

If you have any concerns or questions regarding the assessments, please do not hesitate to reach out to your students’ subject teachers or Teacher Advisor. We are here to provide guidance and support during this period. PAM is also a useful reference at any time.

Thank you for your ongoing support in fostering a positive learning environment for your student wish all our students the best of luck in their assessments and hope that they approach this time with confidence and a growth mindset.

A few days after writing my last newsletter report I the pleasure of entering my old stomping ground, farewelling Rice students in their final House Assembly. Throughout this Assembly I was reminded of the wonderful House System that we have in place at Damascus College. There is certainly a sense of connectedness and pride that students have in belonging to their House. For many students, this assembly marks the realisation that the close relationships developed with their TA is ending. For many students the TA has been the one constant in their life at Damascus. Conversely, the emotional investment that TAs place in supporting students cannot be underestimated. So, while we acknowledge the final weeks of our Year 12 students’ education, I thank all TAs for their unconditional support they have given their students.

In a similar fashion, I was so proud of how well our Year 12 students engaged in their final Assembly. I was taken aback by our College Captains’ farewell where they spoke openly on the immense pride they felt in leading our school community. I have been witness to Sophie and Xavier’s engagement at the College since the commenced in year 7. Our 2023 Captains took the opportunity to thank all the Staff and Teachers who have played a significant role in their lives over the past 6 years. “Guiding us through your teachings and helping us to grow as young people to have an elevated voice within the school community and show our Damascus pride.” Sophie and Xaver also took the opportunity to thank “family and friends who have gotten us to this point guiding us, keeping us safe, and shaping the people we are today. We could not have gotten to this point without you.” I congratulate Sophie and Xavier for their wonderful leadership this year.

Other highlights of the Assembly included Pyper Smith and Harriet Murphy’s musical performance, the Year 12 Dance and the Final Year 12 Memories Video. This was an awesome Assembly enjoyed by a huge family, friends, and carers representation.

As many of our Year 12s continue their exam period, I remind parents and carers of the unconditional love and support that you continue to offer your students at this time.

On Friday the Damascus College junior girls and boys footballers participated in the annual McAuley Cup/Shield football competition against Mercy Regional College.

Our students and coaches were in good spirits as they headed to the Camperdown Football Netball Club to compete.

The junior girls competed for the McAuley Shield in a tight contest between both teams. All of the girls played valiantly, but Mercy pulled ahead in the final quarter to defeat Damascus for the first time.

The McAuley Cup was a lively match played by the junior boys teams, but the Damascus team dominated throughout allowing the boys to bring the Cup back to Damascus.

Damascus College would like to thank Mercy Regional College for the wonderful hospitality at this annual event. We look forward to welcoming you back to Ballarat as we host the event next year.

#DamascusCollege #DamascusPride #BeMyBest #ImReadyToTakeOnAnything

Our Year 12 Humanities students are embarking on their VCE exams this week and next. Business Management on Wednesday 1^st, Revolutions Monday 6^th, Legal Studies Wednesday 8^th and Geography Thursday 9^th November. Good luck to our Year 12 students.

Once all Year 12 exams are finished then our Year 11 and Year 10 student will participate in Humanities based exams. The students in Year 7-9 may have tests or exam style question within their classes but not formal exams.

Since the last Humanities contribution to the Newsletter we have had some exciting news. Year 8 student, Ruby Lethlean’s submission to the National History Challenge has won a Gold Award in the category Museum Exhibit. Ruby’s submission was about “Influenza through the ages”. We have included another picture of Ruby and her diorama. Ruby and her family are being invited to the National History Challenge state ceremony. Congratulations Ruby.

Finally, remember Garfield, (thanks to cartoonist/author Jim Davies)

Damascus College Year 10 students this week have been able to leave the classroom and get the very valuable real-world practice offered by undertaking work experience.

Work experience is the short-term placement of students, with employers to provide insights into the industry and the workplace in which they are located and which a student is potentially interested in for a future career or area of study. It provides students with the valuable opportunity to develop skills for employment.

Two students involved have been Sophie, who has been commended for her punctuality, willingness to follow instructions, and her friendly disposition while she has been at Dana Street Dental and Aidan who has wowed at Emmaus Primary School because of his initiative and friendly nature.

We hope that all of our students have learned a lot from their placements and that they enjoyed this opportunity to learn outside of the classroom.

#DamascusCollege #DamascusPride #BeMyBest #ImReadyToTakeOnAnything

Last Tuesday the Health and Physical Education Department showcased the learning area at the Damascus College Open Night. Potential students participated in several activities on the night. Those activities included a 20m sprint through the timing gates, vertical leap test, and table tennis. Current Damascus Physical Education students ran the activities and did the College proud in the way they interacted with families throughout the night.

Last week Unit 3/4 students of Health and Human Development and Physical Education officially completed their last classes before exams. We wish all HPE students the very best for the exams and are proud of the work they have put in throughout the year.

Year 7 – 10 students are nearing the completion of their respective units before the exam and early start period. Exams will be conducted for Year 10 Energy for Exercise and Year 10 Australian and Global Health. Other units will be completing assessment tasks during this time.

During the Class of 2023 final assembly last Wednesday a number of significant awards were presented to year 12 students that included:

ADF Long Tan Leadership and Teamwork Award

The Australian Defence Forces Long Tan Leadership and Teamwork Award recognizes students who display qualities of leadership, the ability to work in a team, good communication skills and who contribute to their school and community, as these values reflect those of the ADF. It comes with a certificate and a prize of $550.

The ADF Leadership & Teamwork award for 2023 goes to Rohan Shillito.

Rohan is a Rice House captain and has been the secretary of the SRC this year – two roles that have allowed him to develop his leadership and communication skills. He has been part of Damascus rowing in each of his 6 years at the College and this year received the Senior Rowing Excellence Award. As part of his VET & VM programs Rohan has volunteered at Emmaus, Buninyong and Ballarat Specialist school – helping within the classroom and at sports days. He has been involved with community sport from a young age in both football and rowing. All these activities have allowed Rohan to demonstrate teamwork, communication and leadership skills – the qualities being recognized with this ADF Long Tan Leadership and Teamwork award.

ADF Long Tan Future Innovators Award

The ADF has developed this award to recognize students who show high levels of motivation, innovation and achievement in STEM related fields (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths), as these are skills and abilities that are highly valued within the ADF program. This award comes with a certificate and a prize of $550. 

The ADF Future Innovators award goes to Drew Smith. Drew was chosen due to the work he has done in Systems Technology where he has demonstrated excellent skills and the ability to problem solve to overcome hurdles and achieve the required outcome.  He is also completing other STEM subjects of Mathematical Methods and Media, and together these three subjects have allowed him to develop and demonstrate strong STEM skills.

ACU Impact Award

This is sponsored by the Australian Catholic University to the value of $200. This award recognizes a Year 12 student who:

• Demonstrates empathy, insight, and openness to difference and debate

• Challenges stereotypes and strives to make a positive impact in their community

• Has been a listener and leader in their senior journey

• Always strives to be the best they can be.

The 2023 ACU Impact Award goes to Wyatt Pilmore

Wyatt is a Xavier House Captain and in that role he has worked hard to help plan and manage a variety of school events, including swimming and athletics carnivals, Damascus Day and the 2023 Academic Assembly. He has always been an enthusiastic participant in these school activities and this enthusiasm encourages others to get involved as well. Within the classroom Wyatt is respected by his peers and teachers, and this is another area where his willingness to be actively involved in his learning has been apparent, however he also listens and respects the opinion of others. Wyatt’s teachers all attest to his determination to achieve the best he can in his studies and to the positive contribution he has made to school life both in and outside the classroom.

Business Entrepreneur Award

This new award for year 12 is sponsored by past Damascus student Giovanni Piazza, Class of 212 and has been developed to recognize a year 12 student who demonstrates:

• strong business and entrepreneurial skills

• an ability to be innovative and think outside the box

• a strong work ethic to achieve in their chosen endeavours

The inaugural winner of this award is Year 12 student Kobie Balazic.

Kobie has, for several years, been running an online business which has currently amassed over 200,000 followers. He spends around 20 hours each week, brainstorming and implementing new ideas and this commitment has allowed his online business to flourish. Next year Kobie is planning to continue his endeavours with his online career, whilst exploring new opportunities that may arise.

Notre Dame Science Prize

The University of Notre Dame School of Medicine runs a clinical school in Ballarat for training of medical practitioners and sponsors an annual Science prize of $100 for a student who has demonstrated academic excellence in their Science studies, and who intends to pursue a career in the Sciences.

The 2023 Notre Dame Science Prize is awarded to Brianna White for excellent academic achievements in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Brianna has been a motivated, self-disciplined and independent learner who has worked diligently to produce assessment tasks of a high standard. Next year Brianna is hoping to study a double degree in engineering and science at either RMIT or Monash University. She has a particular interest in chemical engineering and the application of chemistry in medicines and, innovative techniques for furthering the sustainability of common chemical applications within a multitude of industries

Senior Art Acquisition

The Senior Art Acquisition Award recognizes an outstanding piece of work from a student in Years 10 to 12. The chosen piece of work is purchased from the student for display around the school – and no doubt you all will have seen previous purchases on display in the Undercroft and the Library.

This year’s chosen artwork is titled Kairosclerosis by Year 12 student Brynne Milne. The media is oil paints on a wooden panel.

The word Kairosclerosis means “the moment you realize that you are currently happy, and then consciously try to savour and enjoy the feeling before it fades”. Brynne’s work aims to depict that moment of happiness in the images of light and warmth, which contrast starkly against the darkness of the background which represents ignorance and the unknown. The figure curled up clutching the light reflects the unwillingness to let go of that happy moment.

Brynne receives $100 from the school for hers work, and we have the pleasure of having this piece of art available for display in our school.

Please see following information in relation to the Dobsons Buy Early Sale and 2023 / 2024 Extended Trading Hours: -